Many dog lovers are drawn to breeds with floppy ears due to their charming and gentle appearance. These dogs often have friendly personalities that make them great companions for families and individuals alike. This article explores 25 dog breeds that showcase these delightful floppy ears, highlighting their unique traits and characteristics.
Floppy ears can vary in size and shape, contributing to the uniqueness of each breed. From the playful Basset Hound to the elegant Bloodhound, these breeds not only stand out for their looks but also for their diverse temperaments and energy levels. This overview offers insights into some of the most beloved floppy-eared dog breeds.
Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a gentle and friendly breed known for its distinct floppy ears. They typically weigh between 40 to 65 pounds and stand about 14 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.
Basset Hounds have a long, low body shape along with short legs. Their large, floppy ears help enhance their sense of smell, making them excellent scent hounds. This breed is often affectionate and enjoys being around people.
They are generally good with children, making them great family pets. Basset Hounds are known for their laid-back nature and can be quite charming. They often have a sweet disposition and love to be part of family activities.
While they are not high-energy dogs, Basset Hounds do enjoy short walks and playtime. Training may require some patience due to their independent streak. With the right guidance, they can be well-mannered companions.
Basset Hounds thrive in a loving and caring environment. They appreciate plenty of attention and affection, making them a popular choice among dog lovers.
2) Beagle
Beagles are a popular dog breed known for their friendly nature and floppy ears. They have a keen sense of smell and were originally bred for hunting small game.
This breed typically weighs between 20 to 30 pounds. Beagles are known for their playful and curious personality. They enjoy being around people and can be great family pets.
Beagles have short hair that is easy to maintain. Their ears are long and droopy, which adds to their charm. They come in various colors, including tri-color and lemon.
Beagles thrive in active environments. They love to run and explore, so regular exercise is important. Their strong hunting instincts can lead them to wander off if not properly supervised.
Training a Beagle can be a challenge due to their independent nature. Positive reinforcement works best with this breed. Socialization from an early age helps them develop good behaviors.
Overall, Beagles are loving companions that bring joy to their owners. Their floppy ears and vibrant personalities make them a delightful choice for families.
Bloodhound
The Bloodhound is a large dog breed known for its remarkable sense of smell. They can track scents for miles and are often used in search and rescue operations.
With a height of 23 to 27 inches at the shoulders, these dogs have a sturdy build. They typically weigh between 90 to 110 pounds.
Bloodhounds have long, droopy ears that help trap scent particles in the air. Their skin is loose, which adds to their distinctive appearance.
They are generally friendly and good-natured. Bloodhounds are loyal companions and do well with families.
Regular exercise is important for this breed. They enjoy outdoor activities and need space to run and explore.
Their gentle temperament makes them suitable for various households. Proper training and socialization help them thrive.
4) Cocker Spaniel
The Cocker Spaniel is a popular breed known for its friendly and loving nature. They are medium-sized dogs with distinct floppy ears that add to their charm.
Cocker Spaniels come in two types: American and English. Both types have wavy coats, but their appearances differ slightly. The American Cocker Spaniel has a rounder head, while the English version has a more balanced look.
These dogs are intelligent and eager to please. They can be very alert but may also show some stubbornness. Regular training and socialization are important to keep them well-behaved.
Cocker Spaniels enjoy human company and thrive in family settings. They are active and playful, needing regular exercise to stay healthy.
Their loving nature makes them great companions, often bonding closely with their families. With proper care and attention, Cocker Spaniels can live for about 12 to 15 years.
5) Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is known for its charming appearance and friendly personality. This breed features large ears that can sometimes droop, giving them a floppy look.
Corgis have a playful nature and are highly intelligent. They were originally bred for herding, which contributes to their active behavior. Pembroke Corgis are loyal companions and bond well with their families.
Their ears can stand erect or appear floppy, depending on individual genetics. Some Corgis’ ears may remain folded, especially during puppyhood.
Care for Pembroke Corgis includes regular grooming and ear checks. Keeping their ears clean can help prevent infections. This breed is a great option for families and individuals who enjoy an active lifestyle and companionship.
6) Basset Fauve de Bretagne
The Basset Fauve de Bretagne is a unique breed known for its floppy ears and lively personality. Originating from France, this dog is small but sturdy, standing between 12 to 15 inches tall.
Their ears are long and drop down, which can lead to ear infections. Regular cleaning helps prevent issues caused by trapped moisture and debris.
This breed is energetic, agile, and has a strong sense of smell. They enjoy being active and require regular exercise to stay healthy and fit. Without enough activity, they may become overweight.
Basset Fauve de Bretagne dogs are friendly and good with children. They can also get along well with other pets in the household.
Overall, they make great family companions due to their playful nature and adaptability. When trained properly, they are affectionate and loyal pets.
7) Clumber Spaniel
The Clumber Spaniel is a distinctive breed known for its friendly nature and floppy ears. These dogs have a sturdy build, with a broad head and strong body. Their floppy ears hang down and add to their charming appearance.
Originally bred in England for hunting, Clumber Spaniels are skilled at retrieving game. They are gentle and patient, making them great companions for families. This breed is also known for being affectionate and loyal.
Clumber Spaniels require regular exercise and enjoy outdoor activities. A daily walk or playtime in the yard is important for their well-being. Due to their friendly temperament, they tend to get along well with children and other pets.
This breed is rare and ranks lower in registrations compared to other breeds. Despite this, dedicated breeders focus on preserving the Clumber Spaniel’s characteristics. Potential owners should be prepared for the commitment of training and caring for these dogs.
8) American Cocker Spaniel
The American Cocker Spaniel is known for its long, floppy ears and friendly personality. This breed is small to medium-sized, typically weighing between 20 to 30 pounds.
American Cocker Spaniels have a compact, domed head with deep-set eyes that give them a sweet expression. Their coat is lush and wavy, often requiring regular grooming to stay looking its best.
These dogs were originally bred as hunting companions. They are energetic and enjoy activities like fetching and swimming. Their playful nature makes them great family pets.
Socialization and training from a young age are important. They tend to be loving and loyal but can also be a bit stubborn. Consistent, positive reinforcement works best with this breed.
American Cocker Spaniels thrive on companionship. They are known to bond closely with their owners and enjoy being involved in family activities. Their friendly disposition can make them good with children and other pets.
9) English Springer Spaniel
The English Springer Spaniel is a popular dog known for its friendly nature and floppy ears. This breed is medium-sized and usually weighs between 40 to 50 pounds. They stand about 19 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
Springers are energetic and love to play. They thrive in active environments and enjoy participating in outdoor activities with their families. Their affectionate personality makes them great companions for both kids and adults.
Their long, floppy ears give them a unique look. Regular ear care is important to prevent infections. A simple routine of checking and cleaning can help maintain their ear health.
English Springer Spaniels are also known to be intelligent and eager to please. This makes them relatively easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new tricks.
With their lively personality and loving disposition, English Springer Spaniels can bring joy to any household. They are well-suited for families who can provide the attention and exercise they need.
10) Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is a medium-sized dog known for its long, floppy ears. These ears give the breed a distinct and charming look.
Primarily, Sussex Spaniels are friendly and affectionate. They are often great with families and can be playful companions for children.
Standing about 13 to 15 inches tall and weighing between 35 to 45 pounds, they have a sturdy build. Their low-lying bodies contribute to their unique appearance.
These dogs are known for their calm temperament. They enjoy being involved in family activities and are eager to please.
The Sussex Spaniel’s coat is typically a golden liver color, adding to its appealing look. While they can be active, they also appreciate downtime with their owners.
This breed is considered good for therapy work due to its gentle nature. Sussex Spaniels thrive in a loving environment where they can interact regularly with people.
11) English Cocker Spaniel
The English Cocker Spaniel is a medium-sized dog known for its floppy ears and friendly demeanor. This breed has a sturdy body and soft, silky fur that often feathers on the ears and legs.
They are energetic and playful, making them great companions for families. English Cocker Spaniels thrive on interaction and enjoy being part of family activities.
These dogs are also known for their intelligence. They can learn commands quickly, especially with positive reinforcement. Regular exercise is important for this breed to keep them happy and healthy.
English Cocker Spaniels are affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners. Their gentle nature makes them suitable for homes with children and other pets.
This breed enjoys outdoor activities and is often used in hunting due to its excellent sense of smell. With proper training and socialization, they can adapt well to various environments.
12) Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel is a medium-sized dog breed that comes from South Carolina. It has distinctive floppy ears and a sturdy build. Their coat is wavy and waterproof, usually in a rich liver-brown color.
Originally, Boykin Spaniels were bred for bird hunting. They excel in retrieving and working in water, making them popular among hunters. Their energetic nature means they need regular exercise.
Boykin Spaniels are friendly and social dogs. They usually get along well with children and other pets. These dogs thrive in active families who can provide them with the attention they need.
Due to their intelligence, Boykin Spaniels are easy to train. They respond well to positive reinforcement and enjoy learning new skills. This breed’s loyal nature makes them great companions.
With the right care, the Boykin Spaniel can be a wonderful addition to a household. It is known for its playful and affectionate personality, making it a favorite among dog lovers.
13) Field Spaniel
The Field Spaniel is a charming breed known for its floppy ears and glossy fur. This dog combines beauty with a friendly nature, making it a great family pet.
Field Spaniels typically weigh between 35 to 50 pounds and stand about 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a sturdy build and an elegant appearance.
This breed is often prized for its gentle temperament. Field Spaniels are good with children and other pets, making them a popular choice for households.
Originally bred in the United Kingdom, these dogs were used for hunting and retrieving. Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them trainable.
Field Spaniels enjoy outdoor activities and need regular exercise. They love playtime in the yard or walks in the park.
Their long, floppy ears are not just a cute feature; they help to add to their distinctive look. Regular grooming is important to keep the ears healthy.
Overall, the Field Spaniel is a beloved breed known for its affectionate nature and playful spirit.
14) Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is known for its long, floppy ears and elegant appearance. This breed boasts a shiny, black-brown coat that adds to its graceful look.
Gordon Setters are intelligent and active dogs. They excel as working dogs, often used in hunting due to their strong sense of smell and keen instincts.
These dogs are also family-friendly and affectionate. They bond well with their owners and can be wonderful companions at home.
They typically weigh between 45 to 80 pounds and stand 23 to 27 inches tall. Male Gordon Setters are generally larger than females.
Regular exercise is important for this breed. Daily walks and playtime help keep them healthy and happy.
In summary, the Gordon Setter combines beauty and brains, making it a popular choice for those looking for a loyal and active pet.
15) Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier is the largest of the terrier group. Known for its distinct look and friendly nature, this breed has floppy ears that add to its charm.
Originally bred for hunting and protecting, Airedales are smart and versatile. They can excel in various roles, from family pets to working dogs.
Their ears are medium in size and tend to fold down. This unique feature can give them a playful appearance. Airedales are also known for their wiry coat, which is usually tan and black.
They require regular grooming to keep their coat healthy. Daily exercise is important to meet their energy needs. Airedale Terriers are known to be loyal companions and are good with children.
With proper training and socialization, they can adapt well to different environments. Their intelligence makes them easy to train, but they thrive on positive reinforcement. Airedales enjoy activities that keep their minds and bodies active.
16) Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small dog breed known for its charming appearance and friendly nature. With its long, flowing coat and distinct floppy ears, it stands out in any crowd. This breed brings joy to many families around the world.
Shih Tzus have a history as lap dogs for Chinese royalty. Their affectionate personality makes them great companions. They thrive on human attention and love to be around people.
Though they may be small, these dogs are known for their bold and confident demeanor. Shih Tzus often enjoy a playful attitude and can engage well with children and other pets.
Regular grooming is essential due to their long fur. This helps keep their coat healthy and free from mats. They are also known to be relatively easy to train, which adds to their appeal as family pets.
Overall, the Shih Tzu is a delightful choice for those looking for a loving and loyal dog with floppy ears. Their combination of cuteness and personality ensures that they will be loved by many.
17) Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a small dog that originates from Tibet. This breed typically weighs between 10 to 15 pounds and stands about 10 to 15 inches tall at the shoulder.
With a medium-long coat, the Tibetan Spaniel has floppy ears that add to its charming appearance. They come in various colors and patterns.
Tibetan Spaniels are known for their playful and energetic nature. They are also very loyal and form strong bonds with their families.
This breed is sensitive and can pick up on their owner’s emotions. They thrive on companionship and enjoy being part of family activities.
They usually live for about 12 to 15 years, making them a long-term pet. Proper care, including grooming and regular exercise, helps keep them healthy and happy.
18) Löwchen
The Löwchen, also known as the “Little Lion Dog,” is a small breed known for its unique appearance. It typically stands about 10 to 12 inches tall and weighs around 13 pounds.
This breed has a strong build and a balanced look, with a level topline. Its fluffy, flowing coat resembles a lion’s mane, and many owners appreciate its charming personality.
Löwchen dogs are friendly and loyal companions. They are great for families and adapt well to apartment living. Their playful nature makes them enjoyable pets for all ages.
Their floppy ears add to their endearing charm, as they frame their intelligent faces. These dogs are known to form close bonds with their owners and thrive on companionship.
With an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years, the Löwchen enjoys a good amount of energy and playtime. Regular grooming is essential to keep their coat in good condition.
19) Kooikerhondje
The Kooikerhondje is a small and energetic dog breed from the Netherlands. Known for its floppy ears and vibrant personality, it typically weighs between 20 and 25 pounds.
This breed has a unique appearance with black tips on its long ears, giving them a charming look. The coat can be wavy or straight, often in orange and white coloring.
Historically, Kooikerhondjes were used as duck decoy dogs. Their intelligence and agility helped hunters lure ducks into traps.
Due to their playful nature, they are great family pets. They thrive on activity and enjoy outdoor play.
Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat healthy. Their floppy ears should also be checked regularly to prevent infections.
Overall, Kooikerhondjes are rare outside of Europe but make devoted companions for those who know them. With the right care, they can be happy and healthy pets.
20) Spinone Italiano
The Spinone Italiano is a medium-sized dog known for its friendly and loyal nature. This breed has a strong, athletic build and a dense coat that helps it in various weather conditions.
One of the most distinctive features of the Spinone is its large, floppy ears. These ears can make them more prone to ear infections. Regular cleaning and checks are important to keep these dogs healthy.
They are intelligent and adaptable, making them great family pets. Spinones enjoy outdoor activities and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
This breed is also known for being gentle and calm around children. Spinone Italianos typically get along well with other dogs.
While they are generally healthy, Spinones may face certain health issues like hip dysplasia and cerebellar ataxia. Regular vet checkups and a balanced diet are essential for their well-being.
With their versatile skills, they excel in hunting as well as companionship. They are a great choice for active families looking for a loving, friendly dog.
21) French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is known for its charming personality and distinctive appearance. One of its most notable features is its floppy ears.
These ears often have a rounded shape, giving the breed a unique look. Floppy ears can be normal for some French Bulldogs, especially when they are puppies.
Ears may droop due to various reasons such as teething or genetic factors. In some cases, trauma or infections might also cause the ears to become floppy.
While most adult French Bulldogs have upright “bat ears,” some may retain a floppy appearance throughout their lives. This can be a normal part of their development.
Their floppy ears add to their appeal, making them popular among families. French Bulldogs are loving companions and are known for their playful nature.
22) Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is known for its striking red coat and long, floppy ears. This breed stands between 25 and 27 inches tall and typically weighs between 60 and 70 pounds.
With its energetic nature, the Irish Setter is a great family dog. It is friendly, playful, and good with children. This breed enjoys being active and loves outdoor activities.
The floppy ears of the Irish Setter are not just for looks. They contribute to the dog’s excellent sense of smell. This breed excels in tracking and hunting, thanks to its keen abilities.
Irish Setters have a cheerful temperament. They thrive on companionship and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Grooming is also important; their long coat needs regular brushing.
Overall, the Irish Setter is a delightful and spirited dog. Its elegance and playful nature make it a beloved choice for many dog lovers.
23) Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a medium-sized dog known for its distinct floppy ears. This breed typically weighs between 25-35 pounds and stands about 16 to 19 inches tall.
Originally from Italy, the Lagotto Romagnolo was bred for truffle hunting. It has a thick, curly coat that protects it from water and cold. The fur can be various colors, including off-white, brown, or even roan patterns.
Lagottos are intelligent and energetic dogs. They need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Their friendly temperament makes them good family pets.
With large, round eyes and a uniquely shaped face, these dogs are very charming. Their floppy ears add to their adorable appearance, making them a favorite among dog lovers.
24) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small breed known for its floppy ears and friendly nature. They typically stand 12 to 13 inches tall and weigh between 13 to 18 pounds.
These dogs originated in the United Kingdom and were bred as companion animals. Their gentle temperament makes them great pets for families and singles alike.
Cavaliers have long, soft fur that requires regular grooming. They are affectionate and enjoy being close to their owners.
This breed is known for being playful and happy. They have a cheerful disposition and often love to engage in activities with their families.
The breed is also known for its expressive, large eyes, which contribute to their charm. Their floppy ears add to their adorable appearance, making them a favorite among dog lovers.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels thrive on social interaction and do well in various living situations. They adapt easily to different lifestyles, whether in small apartments or larger homes.
25) Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large breed known for its striking appearance. It has a distinctive tri-color coat that features black, brown, and white. The black fur usually covers most of the body, while brown marks are common on the legs.
This breed is strong and agile, making it ideal for various working roles. They generally weigh between 85 and 140 pounds. Males tend to be larger, reaching heights of about 25.5 to 28.5 inches.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog has floppy ears that hang close to its head. These ears help bring an affectionate look to its overall appearance.
Their calm demeanor makes them great family pets. They are friendly and loyal, forming strong bonds with their owners. Regular exercise is important for this breed, as they are active dogs that thrive in engaging environments.
In addition to their strength, they need mental stimulation to keep them happy. This dog is a wonderful option for those who want a loving and energetic companion.